AboutJerry Schwell Expertise Most anything about SAAB 900's 1990 and earlier only, except for automatic transmission info. Also, I have lotsa vintage parts.
Experience I have rebuilt many dozens of SAABS, from 1970's to 1990's.
Education/Credentials BSEE grad work in electronics and underwater acoustics.
Expert: Jerry Schwell Date: 5/26/2008 Subject: saab 900 89 model
Question it started off with car running for distances then shutting down. then it has gotten more frequent until it will not crank at all. fuel pump and relays check out okay. engine will turn over but not fire
Answer Jack:
You did not say whether you checked for spark. Also, did you check for "fuel flow" or just "fuel pump running noise". My first guess, in order of likelihood, is a clogged fuel filter, hence the need for a "fuel flow" test. Next I would check for spark, in particular for a "grounded rotor". This is when the rotor (inside the distributor cap) develops a short circuit to ground...and can be detected by "sniffing" the "hole" of the rotor for a "burnt" smell.
After these two simple tests, the field of possibilities "widens", but at least you'll know whether fuel or spark are to blame.
